Category: Newcastle News

The AFP has charged a Hunter Valley man for his role in the alleged attempted importation of 21kg of methamphetamine from Spain last month.  

The man, 37, allegedly had links to an organised crime group and appeared in Singleton Local Court today (7 February, 2025) charged with attempting to import commercial quantities of border-controlled drugs. He was remanded in custody to reappear before court on 9 April, 2025. 

AFP officers started an investigation on 15 January, 2025, after a referral from the Australian Border Force (ABF), where officers observed an anomaly within a consignment which arrived via sea cargo. 

The cargo, described as being portable power stations, was examined by ABF officers with assistance from the ABF Detector Dog Unit, where they located approximately 21kg of methamphetamine concealed within several individually-wrapped packages. 

The AFP seized the methamphetamine, which has an estimated street value of about $19 million and could have been sold as about 210,000 individual street deals. 

AFP investigators facilitated a controlled delivery of the consignment yesterday (6 February, 2025) to its intended address in Bulga, in the NSW Hunter Valley, where it will be alleged the 37-year-old took possession of the consignment.  

A search warrant was executed at a property linked to the man, where police located further illicit substances and drug paraphernalia. Investigators also located electronic devices, including five mobile phones allegedly belonging to the man. 

The man was charged with one count attempt to possess a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug, namely methamphetamine, contrary to section 307.5(1), by virtue of 11.1(1), of the Criminal Code (Cth). This offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.  

Following the man’s arrest, further search warrants were executed at Hunterview where police located a suspected explosive device.  

With the assistance of the NSW Police Rescue & Bomb Disposal Unit, the device was identified as a commercial-grade grenade and seized by police.  

Police also seized a small quantity of border-controlled drug as well as further drug paraphernalia at the Hunterview property.  

AFP Detective acting Inspector Aaron Burgess said serious organised crime in any form was a national security threat. 

“The illegal and harmful drugs that organised crime syndicates import into Australia make our communities less safe,” Det-a/Insp Burgess said. 

“The use of illegal substances causes immeasurable harm to users and their families. Territorial drug disputes spill into suburbs and put innocent people at risk, while drug-affected drivers are a menace on the roads – all in the name of profit for organised crime syndicates. 

“That is why the AFP works closely with law enforcement and intelligence partners locally and internationally to disrupt these groups seeking to harm Australians and profit at the expense of our communities. 

“I would like to thank the dedicated men and women – the sworn and unsworn members – who have again helped protect Australians from the scourge of illicit drugs.” 

ABF Superintendent Jared Leighton said the use of ABF’s detector dog capability further enhanced the officer’s knowledge and ability to identify the complex concealments. 

“The officers’ suspicions were already heightened due to noted anomalies on the consignment’s x-ray image, however the subsequent positive detection from the ABF’s detector dogs gave additional confirmation that further analysis and testing was required,” Supt Leighton said. 

“This demonstrates the suite of detection capabilities that our officers can employ to detect and stop kilograms of harmful substances from flooding onto our streets. 

“The ABF will continue to work with our state, national and international law enforcement partners to disrupt these criminal syndicates in their tracks.” 

Enquiries into the syndicate remain ongoing.  

Newcastle community members have shown fantastic support for Return an Earn this summer, collectively helping the State hit a record-breaking year and reach a milestone of 13 billion drink containers recycled through the network since the scheme began.

On 23 December 2024 NSW achieved the biggest single day ever with 10.3 million containers returned. Last year alone, 2.125 billion containers were recycled, resulting in our biggest year yet. 

More than $1.3 billion in container refunds have gone back in people’s pockets, helping with cost-of-living expenses, saving for a special goal or supporting amazing causes.

By local government area, here’s how the numbers look:

LGA	Containers returned Christmas/NY (21 December 2024 – 30 January 2025)	Containers returned since scheme commencement
Newcastle	6.4 million	317.4 million
Maitland	3.9 million	145.7million
Lake Macquarie	8.97 million	441.3 million
Total	19.4 million	904.4 million

To provide even greater access for the local community, a new Return and Earn machine has opened at the University of Newcastle, in the carpark near Edwards Hall on University Drive, Callaghan. It is open daily from 8.00am to 8.00pm.

Recyclers using the machine can print a voucher for the refund amount, which can be redeemed for cash at Woolworths, or they can opt for an e-voucher or payment directly into their bank or PayPal account using the Return and Earn app.    

Over $72 million has also been raised for charities and community groups through donations and return point hosting fees, supporting their important work from providing food and shelter to environmental conservation. 

Anyone visiting a Return and Earn machine or depot can consider supporting one of over 300 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app or our current statewide donation partner Foodbank NSW & ACT. 

The food relief charity provides much needed food assistance to individuals and families in need, and just five containers donated can fund one meal for someone facing hardship.

For more information on Return and Earn visit: www.returnandearn.org.au

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley said:

“The Newcastle region including Newcastle, Maitland and Lake Macquarie are enthusiastic users of Return and Earn and have collectively returned 904.4 million drink containers through local return points since the scheme began in December 2017. 

“We’re excited to see how Newcastle continues to contribute to Return and Earn’s success, and we thank everyone for their ongoing participation.”

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Maitland community are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned more than 145.7 million containers through local return points since the scheme first launched in NSW six years ago, and 3.9 million in the last month alone.

“Not only can locals make Return and Earn a part of their recycling routine and keep eligible drink bottles, cans and cartons out of landfill, but in this cost-of-living crisis these extra funds come in very handy for many including local charities.”

State Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp said:

“Novocastrians are enthusiastic users of Return and Earn and are very environmentally conscious. Since the scheme began, our community has returned an incredible 317.4 million drink containers through local return points.

“I’m excited to see Newcastle continue to contribute to Return and Earn’s success and thank everyone for their ongoing participation.”

A second man has been charged following an extensive investigation into an alleged arson at Lake Macquarie late last year.

About 3.50am on Wednesday 27 November 2024, emergency services were called to a building on Main Road, Speers Point, following reports of a fire.

Officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District attended and found a council building well alight.

Fire and Rescue NSW crews worked to extinguish the blaze; however, the building was significantly damaged.

Initial assessment of damages caused by the fire is in excess of $12 million dollars.

Police established a crime scene and inquiries into the fire commenced under Strike Force Komiatum.

Following extensive inquiries and public appeals for information, detectives attended a unit at East Maitland about 10am on Thursday 16 January 2025, where they executed a search warrant.

During the search, police allegedly located and seized a dark grey utility, a firearm, a small bag containing a substance believed to be methamphetamine, and other items of interest.

A 53-year-old man was arrested and taken to Maitland Police Station where he was charged with destroy etc property in company use fire etc, possess unregistered firearm, not keep firearm safely, possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority, and possess prohibited drug.

He remains before the Courts.

Following further inquiries, about 4.30pm today (Thursday 6 February 2025), detectives arrested a 43-year-old man at Newcastle.

He was taken to Newcastle Police Station where he was charged with destroy property in company – use fire.

The man was refused bail and will appear at Newcastle Local Court tomorrow (Friday 7 February 2025).

Inquiries under Strike Force Komiatum continue.

A Worimi man who completed a 4,500km journey from Western Australia to Newcastle raising funds to improve Indigenous literacy has been selected as Newcastle’s Citizen of the Year 2025. 

Twenty-three-year-old Bailey Myers received the award at City of Newcastle’s Citizen of the Year ceremony today for his solo walk in March 2024, which spanned almost six months and raised nearly $16,000 in donations.

Image caption: From L-R Khuslen Batmandakh, Dr. Helen English, Associate Professor Michelle Kelly, Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge, Evelyn Collins and Bailey Myers accept their award at City of Newcastle Citizen of the Year awards ceremony. Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge praised Bailey’s endurance and strength, saying his efforts have demonstrated true leadership for all communities. 

“Mr Myers embodies the values of the Citizen of the Year title. His inspirational walk should be a reminder to us all of the power of resilience, determination, and the impact one person can have in creating positive change,” Cr Kerridge said. 

“His journey is a testament to the strength of community and the importance of supporting Indigenous voices and education.”

Inspired by his parents who are both teachers, Bailey said supporting the Indigenous Literacy Foundation was an easy choice as providing academic support to First Nations communities, particularly in remote areas is crucial. 

“Literacy is fundamental, and I want to do my part to support Indigenous stories and education. I want to inspire young people, especially those who have faced disadvantage, they’ve seen the worst life can throw at them which means they can also do the most,” Mr Myers said. 

“I’m proud to be a Worimi man, and this journey was about more than just the walk, it was about connecting to Country, honouring my ancestors, and giving back to my community. It’s an honour to be recognised by my peers and it’s something I’ll always be proud of.” 

Donations were made online through the Indigenous Literacy Foundation website, with additional contributions from generous individuals Bailey met along his journey. 

Making his way across the country, Bailey pushed a homemade cart carrying his belongings, decorated with the handprints of students from his former high school, Callaghan College Waratah. 

Beginning his journey in Perth, he navigated highways, dirt roads, and the vast Nullarbor Plain, camping on roadsides along the way before completing the trek in his hometown of Newcastle. 

City of Newcastle also recognised other outstanding community members as part of the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards. 

Sixteen-year-old Khuslen Batmandakh was named Young Citizen of the Year for her dedication to improving literacy and community engagement.   

After learning her neighbourhood of Jesmond had one of the lowest literacy rates in the country, the high school student established the book nook at her local shopping centre, providing access to free books for local families. 

Khuslen continues to launch initiatives through the Leos Club at Merewether High School, including the ‘Love from Leos’ program to connect isolated aged care residents with young people and championing Bus Driver Recognition Day by organising care packs for drivers. 

Citizen of the Year award winners with Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge, Councillors, and State Member for Newcastle Tim Crankanthorp.
The Senior Citizen of the Year title was awarded to Evelyn Collins, a clinical nurse deeply committed to the welfare of patients with Parkinson’s disease. In her own time, Evelyn will regularly travel from Newcastle to Sydney to accompany patients through surgery.  

She has played a key role in establishing and continues to coordinate essential services for the Hunter region including the Hunter Deep Brain Stimulation service and DBS support group.

The Community Group of the Year was awarded to The Unforgettables Dementia Choir, a choir dedicated to supporting people living with dementia and their carers. Co-founder Dr Helen English says music has great power to trigger memory and foster social connection. 

The group meet every Saturday afternoon at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, providing a welcoming space where participants can engage with music. 

In addition to their weekly gatherings, the group also host an afternoon tea during the week, offering another opportunity to connect and support one another in a relaxed setting. 

City of Newcastle’s annual Citizen of the Year awards formally recognise the outstanding contributions of extraordinary Novocastrians over the past year.

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a woman missing from the state’s north.

Carley Haenga, aged 41, was last seen at a shopping centre in Pearson Street, Charlestown between 1pm-2pm today, Thursday 6 February 2025.

When she was unable to be located or contacted, officers attached to Newcastle City Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Carley’s welfare.

She is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 165cm tall, of large build, with long black hair and brown eyes.

Carley is known to frequent the Merewether, Charlestown and Hamilton South areas.

Anyone with information into her whereabouts is urged to call Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

As Ausgrid consults communities about upgrades to critical network infrastructure to support the Hunter Central Coast Renewable Energy Zone, local groups are urging the Federal Government to deliver a Local Energy Hub to the region.

The Hunter Jobs Alliance is concerned locals didn’t know Ausgrid’s community drop-in sessions in Singleton and Muswellbrook last week were taking place, and encouraged people to attend online webinars this Thursday 6 February. 

Hunter Jobs Alliance Coordinator Justin Page said the region needed a Local Energy Hub to help bridge the information disconnect between governments, industry and the communities being asked to host renewable energy infrastructure like wind and solar farms, batteries and new transmission lines.

“The upgrades being proposed by Ausgrid will see them using existing transmission easements and corridors,” said Justin Page.

“This a fantastic thing and a first for a renewable energy zone in Australia – but we’re concerned locals will never hear about it because they don’t know that consultation sessions are taking place,” he said.

Mr Page said Ausgrid’s consultation process in the Hunter Central Coast region is a good example of why the Hunter needs a Hub. 

“The Ausgrid upgrades are key to getting access to cheap renewable energy, creating local jobs and local economic benefits, but the conversation about why it is needed, where it will go and how it will be rolled out is still not happening adequately,” he said.

RE-Alliance, alongside partners Community Power Agency and Yes2Renewables, has been calling on the Federal Government to address the information gap on Australia’s shift to renewables with Local Energy Hubs in renewable energy regions.

RE-Alliance National Director Andrew Bray said: “The shift to renewables is well underway, but regional communities are telling us they need much more information to understand how to get the most out of the change.”

“These hubs would be physical centres with a strong outreach program in renewable energy regions, staffed by independent local experts to help build trust and provide accurate information about what’s happening,” Mr Bray said.

The Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi MP and Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon MP have both publicly backed the need for a Local Energy Hub in the Hunter.

Hunter Jobs Alliance Coordinator Justin Page added: “Hubs are a no-brainer for the Hunter, the question we’ve got for the Federal Government is why don’t we have one yet?”

More information on the Local Energy Hubs model can be found at: localenergyhubs.org.au.

To register for the Ausgrid online forums taking place at 12:30pm and 7:30pm on Thursday 6 Feb email HCCREZ@ausgrid.com.au or visit yoursay.ausgrid.com.au/hccrez. 

Councillor and former Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes has formally advised City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath of her resignation from Council.

The resignation brings to a close Nuatali’s more than 16-year career with Newcastle City Council, having been elected as a Ward 3 Councillor in August 2008, before being elected as Lord Mayor in November 2014 until October 2024.

Former Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and City of Newcastle staff at the Works Depot in 2024.The Council unanimously resolved in October that should a councillor resign in the first 18 months of the four-year term, a countback election would take place.

This election does not require voters of Ward 3 to return to the polls and therefore a by-election is not required. Instead, the NSW Electoral Commission will now contact all unelected Ward 3 candidates to confirm their interest in being elected to Council. 

If there is only one eligible candidate, that candidate is elected. If there are multiple eligible candidates, a countback election is conducted based on votes from the election in Ward 3 in September 2024.

CEO Jeremy Bath said he wished Nuatali all the best.

“On behalf of the City of Newcastle’s 1,400 employees, I’d like to thank Nuatali for her dedication as a councillor and as the former Lord Mayor,” Mr Bath said.

“Nuatali was not only a passionate supporter of Newcastle, but also for our staff and the incredible work they do in the community.

“Only 15 people have served in the role of Lord Mayor of Newcastle. It’s a seven-day-a-week role and for Nuatali it commenced the minute she woke each morning and didn’t pause until very late at night. 

“I especially appreciated Nuatali’s advice and effort during the pandemic. Under Nuatali’s leadership our Council took on a very visible support role for the community, injecting tens of millions of dollars into the community to support those that had either lost their job or who were suffering from the health impacts of the multiple lock downs.

“Nuatali’s 16 years on Council has coincided with a significant transformation of Newcastle, nowhere more evident than in the Newcastle CBD itself.

“When Nuatali was first elected as a Councillor, City of Newcastle was approving $450 million in development annually. Last year more than $1.5 billion in development was approved, including over 350 projects that when completed will provide 900 dwellings for our community. In 2014 we had a backlog of 410 DAs that were undetermined. Today that number has fallen to 209, the lowest number since we started keeping records more than 30 years ago. 

“Over the past decade Council has approved 14,586 development applications, with a combined value of more than $9 billion.

“The last 10 years during which Nuatali served as Newcastle’s 14^th Lord Mayor saw an even greater economic change in the city. Local employment has grown by more than 17,000 jobs or 20%, and the unemployment rate has fallen from 7.3% to 3.1%, which is lower than the regional NSW unemployment rate, the state unemployment rate and the national unemployment rate.

“Over the past decade the population of Newcastle has increased by more than 10%, with our city now considered one of the most desired places to live in Australia.

“Urban revitalisation has also seen unprecedented growth and transformation across the city during the past 10 years. When Nuatali was elected Lord Mayor in August 2014, the city was investing $45.4 million annually in city infrastructure. The most recent capital works program adopted by Council in July last year committed $143.4 million to be spent improving the city. This is the largest capital works program ever attempted by any local council in the Hunter region.”  

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said he thanked Nuatali for her 16 years of civic service.

“Nuatali has had a remarkably long career contributing to the city through the Council, to the Newcastle Airport, to the Local Government Association of NSW, and to the Labor party,” Cr Kerridge said.

“It has been a time of dramatic changes in our city.  Nuatali‘s energetic leadership has been a major part of this change. 

“Civic leadership requires great sacrifices, including by families, and I hope Nuatali and her family can now enjoy some time together, reflecting on their achievements. 

“I wish her well in her future career wherever that may take her.”

Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said he’s enjoyed working with Nuatali over the past three years.

“From day one Nuatali was a generous leader and always willing to share advice, especially when I was learning the ropes of being a Councillor,” Cr Pull said.

“I will miss having her at Council, and her absence from Council meetings will be significant in terms of her extensive local government knowledge and experience. That said, it’s an opportunity for all of us to step up and help fill the void created by Nuatali’s resignation. 

“Her contribution to our city has been enormous, and I wish her every success in her journey ahead.”

Police are renewing their appeal for public assistance to locate a man missing from the Lake Macquarie region.

Andrew Dumbrell, aged 35, was last seen on Lorna and Edith Street, Waratah about 9.10am on Tuesday 14 January 2025.

When he could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Lake Macquarie Police District were notified and commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.

Police and family hold concerns for Andrew’s welfare as he lives with medical conditions which require medication.

Andrew is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 165cm to 170cm tall, of medium build, with grey hair and brown eyes.

He was last seen wearing a black t-shirt with a white logo, dark coloured shorts and no shoes.

He is known to use public transport and frequent Windale, Warners Bay, Charlestown and Belmont areas.

Students and teachers in the Hunter are welcoming eleven new principals today, to mark the first day of the 2025 school year. 

Kim Cummings, Melanie Elks and Jaclyn Zoneff have become principals for the first time at Wallsend Public School, Mannering Park Public School and Laguna Public School respectively.

All three have moved from previous roles as Assistant Principals, Ms Cummings at Rutherford Public School, Ms Elks at Swansea Public School and Ms Zoneff at Bellbird Public School.

The remaining eight new principals are moving from existing principalships:

• Kim Smith has moved to Clarence Town Public School from Goulburn Public School
• Susan Xenos has moved to Hunter River High School from Tomaree High School
• Emma Pezet has moved to Barnsley Public School from Lisarow Public School
• Peter Riley has moved to Callaghan College, Jesmond Campus from Cessnock High School
• Sharon Morris has moved to Metford Public School from Greta Public School
• Lesley Burley has moved to Nulkaba Public School from Pelaw Main Public School
• Adam Lewis has moved to Toronto Public School from Fassifern Public School
• Lisa Noble has moved to Cardiff South Public School from Hamilton North Public School.

Across NSW, 62 new principals are starting to meet staff, students and families to outline their leadership priorities and aspirations for student success for the school year. 

Of these principals, 28 are taking up the leadership role for the first time and 34 are principals starting at a new school.

Education Secretary Murat Dizdar welcomed the new principals to their new schools for the start of the 2025 school year.

“Our principals and their executive teams play a vital role in providing every student in NSW public schools with a great education and the best start in life,” he said.

“They have a significant impact on classroom results, guide teacher development, and lead engagement with their school community.

“Our principals create a culture where everyone can be their best, by embedding the best teaching and learning based on evidence and growing the next generation of leaders – both students and staff.”

Research shows that effective principals play an essential role in guiding their schools and nurturing student learning.

“We invest in leadership development through our School Leadership Institute because key education research shows there is a direct connection between school leadership, teacher professional learning and improved student outcomes,” Mr Dizdar said.

“Our principals demonstrate collective responsibility for the success of the public education system by supporting the leadership development of others.

City of Newcastle is seeking a development partner for its landmark affordable housing project located on vacant land in the Newcastle CBD.

Known as Rail Bridge Row, the site on Hunter Street, which is part of the former heavy rail corridor, is set to play a key role in increasing affordable housing supply in the city.

A national invitation for expressions of interest (EOI) has been issued to find suitable partners with the capabilities and expertise to deliver the project in collaboration with the City.

Executive Director Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer, David Clarke, said City of Newcastle is embarking on a journey to forge a vibrant community where everyone can thrive.

“As we prepare for a significant population increase of more than 40,000 by 2041, we are fully aware of the pressing need for safe, convenient and affordable housing,” Mr Clarke said.

“By seeking to partner with an experienced community housing provider and other interested parties to deliver this project, we are creating a new affordable housing model that could potentially be replicated at other sites within Newcastle.

“Our long-term strategy is based on thoughtful collaboration with housing experts and industry stakeholders. Through strategic collaboration, meticulous planning, and unwavering dedication, we are not just dreaming of a better Newcastle – we are creating it.

“Our commitment to achieve our vision is strengthened by a groundbreaking partnership between the City of Newcastle and the NSW Government leading to a historic $12 million investment in social housing right here in our city.

“This partnership has already begun to positively impact our local area with the rapid development of additional social housing in Wallsend. 

“We invite all interested community housing providers and other parties to review the expression of interest documentation for the Rail Bridge Row Affordable Housing Project, with EOIs closing on 7 March 2025.”

City of Newcastle has undertaken detailed investigations on the site, which has the potential to provide more than 30 affordable housing units which would be operated by an experienced community housing provider, making the project ideal for funding through the Federal Government’s Housing Australia Future Fund.

Following assessment of the EOIs, a number of parties may be invited to submit detailed proposals later in 2025, with a view to the project then proceeding through formal design and approvals processes.  

The 4,125 sqm lot at 280 Hunter Street stretches from Brown Street to near the intersection of Darby and Hunter Streets and is opposite the Crown Street light rail stop. 

It was purchased by City of Newcastle from Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation in 2020.

Additionally, the site has also been earmarked to deliver an important east-west commuter cycleway connection between Argyle Street and Wharf Road, strengthening Newcastle’s cycling infrastructure while enhancing the sustainability and liveability of the city.

Regular updates about the Rail Bridge Row Affordable Housing Project will be provided on the City’s website.

Visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/works to read more about our current projects.